[04/26/10 - 01:00 PM]Discovery Channel Passes Landmark 100-Million Subscriber MilestoneDiscovery is now the second-most widely distributed cable network in the U.S., and the number one channel worldwide.

[via press release from Discovery]

Discovery Channel Passes Landmark 100-Million Subscriber Milestone

April 26, 2010

(Silver Spring, Md.) In its silver anniversary year, Discovery Channel has passed the 100-million subscriber mark. According to Nielsen Universe Estimates for May 2010, the network is now distributed to 100.1 million U.S. homes.

Now the second-most widely distributed cable network in the U.S., and the number one channel worldwide, Discovery Channel is distributed to 380 million subscribers in more than 180 countries. From its first program on June 17, 1985 called ICEBERG ALLEY, to groundbreaking documentaries and natural history epics WALKING WITH DINOSAURS, RAISING THE MAMMOTH, PLANET EARTH, the annual rite of summer, SHARK WEEK, and most recently, LIFE, Discovery Channel continues to be the leader in nonfiction programming.

"This is an extraordinary accomplishment for Discovery Channel, our Founder and Chairman John Hendricks and our entire company as we celebrate our 25th anniversary," said Discovery Channel President and General Manager Clark Bunting. "For a quarter century, Discovery has inspired audiences with groundbreaking programming and compelling storytelling about the ever-changing world around us. This latest achievement underscores the tremendous loyalty viewers have for Discovery Channel and its steadfast strength in the marketplace."

"Passing the remarkable 100-million subscriber threshold is a testament to Discovery Channel's unwavering commitment to delivering top-quality content to viewers and being a trusted, value-building service for distribution partners," added Bill Goodwyn, president Domestic Distribution and Enterprises, Discovery Communications.

Discovery Channel's latest distribution success reflects viewers' longstanding dedication to the brand and its programming. The network continues to deliver value and viewers with astounding specials and riveting series. LIFE, which completed its 11-part run on April 18 delivered an average of 4.4 million total viewers (78 million cumulative) and was cable's most watched non-sports event in its timeslot. Fans return week after week for series like MYTHBUSTERS, DIRTY JOBS, MAN VS.WILD and DEADLIEST CATCH, the network's highest rated series, which just kicked off its sixth season with its highest rated episode ever.

The channel also regularly tops the lists of industry surveys. Discovery Channel was recently named, for the sixth consecutive year, as the #1 Media and TV Brand in Overall Equity, the primary measure in the Winter 2010 EquiTrend Brand Equity Study by Harris Interactive. It also has claimed the #1 slots for Quality and Original Programming for nine and 10 years respectively in the Beta Research Cable Subscriber Study-Brand Identity of Basic Cable/Broadcast Networks.

About Discovery Channel

Discovery Channel is dedicated to creating the highest quality non-fiction content that informs and entertains its consumers about the world in all its wonder, diversity and amazement. The network, which is distributed to 100.1 million U.S. homes, can be seen in over 180 countries, offering a signature mix of compelling, high-end production values and vivid cinematography across genres including, science and technology, exploration, adventure, history and in-depth, behind-the-scenes glimpses at the people, places and organizations that shape and share our world. For more information, please visit www.discovery.com.